2 Helen We were inside. I felt soft carpeting beneath my knees as I lowered myself down to the floor, the air cooler than out in the garden and my n*****s were hard points. I shivered, but it was from anticipation alone. My fingers obeyed before I had even registered his words. My hands undid the clasp that held the garment on my shoulder, and I felt it slip down my body and pool at my feet. I took a small step forward, sliding the gown away with my other foot before dropping to my knees and placing my hands in my lap. I heard his breathing change, heard the pace of his footfalls slow as he continued his circle, no doubt studying my naked form. “Unbind your hair.” Another order, but I complied at once, lifting my hands to my head and quickly unraveling the hard work of my new friends.

